Thompson’s Season-High Propels Rockets to Fourth Consecutive Win
HOUSTON (AP) — Amen Thompson delivered a season-best 27 points, while Alperen Sengun contributed 26 points and 11 rebounds, leading the Houston Rockets to a 110-102 win over the Dallas Mavericks on Monday night. The Rockets improved to 4-2 after starting the season 0-2.
Key Moments in the Final Minutes
With about 90 seconds left, Houston held a slim one-point lead when Sengun drove into the paint, skillfully spun past a defender, and scored to bring the score to 105-102. Washington missed a three-pointer, then Josh Okogie scored his first points of the game with two free throws, extending the Rockets’ lead to 107-102 with one minute remaining.
D’Angelo Russell failed to connect on a three, and Thompson made one of two free throws, pushing the lead to 108-102 with 27 seconds left. Thompson then blocked a three-point attempt by No. 1 draft pick Cooper Flagg, and Tari Eason sealed the victory with a dunk.
Mavericks’ Standout Performances
Washington recorded season highs for the Mavericks with 29 points and 12 rebounds, playing without Anthony Davis, who is sidelined with a strained calf. Max Christie added 17 points, and Cooper Flagg contributed 12 points and five rebounds. The Mavericks slipped to 2-5 on the season.
Durant’s Struggles and Highlights
Kevin Durant scored 21 points along with six rebounds and five assists, but struggled from the floor, shooting only 6 of 18. Durant’s first successful three-pointer came after six misses, followed by another three that made the score 99-94 with five minutes remaining.
Daniel Gafford also made a timely layup on the opposite end during this stretch.
“Amen Thompson scored a season-high 27 points, Alperen Sengun added 26 points and 11 rebounds and the Houston Rockets outlasted the Dallas Mavericks for a 110-102 victory on Monday night.”
> “Washington had season highs of 29 points and 12 rebounds for the Mavericks in their second straight game without Anthony Davis, who is out with a strained calf.”
Summary: Amen Thompson’s career night and strong team defense helped the Rockets secure their fourth straight win, overcoming a solid Mavericks effort led by Washington and Flagg.
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